Panasonic announces lightest 14" Toughbook yet: the F9

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Panasonic is rolling out the F9, the latest in its Toughbook series of ruggedized laptops. The 14.1″ laptop features a spill resistant keyboard and can survive a drop from one foot to a “non-yielding surface” while off, as well as drops from 30″ (a little over the height of an office desk) while running. It packs an Intel Core i5 processor, 2GB RAM, 320 GB hard drive, and internal DVD drive. Also included are WiFi, Bluetooth, and optional WiMax or 3G mobile communications. All that in 3.6 pounds!

Business-Rugged Reliability
The new Toughbook® F9 business-rugged notebook successfully survived drops of 30” (just over the typical height of a desk or table) to the base of the unit while operating. Further, using Mil-Spec methodology, the device also survived 26 drops (to every side, corner and face) from 12” to a non-yielding surface.

The unique Panasonic spill-resistant keyboard design protects against liquid spills of nearly 7 ounces (200 cc), and both the lid and base of the device are designed to withstand more than 220 lbs (100 Kg) of compression. In addition, Panasonic’s commitment to quality—at both the component and finished goods level—results in a total of more than 500 checks and tests during and after production plus 100% burn-in testing.

Pricing, Availability and Support
The Panasonic Toughbook® F9 will be available in the United States beginning July 1, 2010. The device will be available starting at an estimated street price of $2,899 from authorized Panasonic resellers.

Every Panasonic Toughbook notebook includes a standard three-year limited warranty and free access to U.S.-based phone support for the entire life of the product.

For more information on the Toughbook F9 and other Toughbook mobile computers, go to www.toughbook.com.